Jessica has been a fitness writer at Tom’s Guide since 2023, bringing three years of experience writing about health, fitness, and the great outdoors. Her passion for exercise began during her childhood, where she spent weekends hiking and competing in local athletics club events. After earning a master’s degree in journalism from Cardiff University, Jessica found the perfect way to combine her love of storytelling and fitness into a career.
Jessica is passionate about testing fitness gear and tech, using her reviews to help readers make informed buying decisions. She ran her first marathon in April 2024, finishing it in 3 hours and 48 minutes. Through her training, she’s developed a deep understanding of what it takes to grow as a runner, from effective workouts and recovery techniques to selecting the right gear for every challenge.
When she’s not at her desk, Jessica enjoys spending time in the kitchen crafting new recipes, braving cold water swims and hiking.
Latest articles by Jessica Downey

I test outdoor apparel for a living — here's 7 The North Face deals I'd shop starting from just $19
By Jessica Downey published
Score North Face deals on backpacks, jackets, shoes, and tees — starting from just $19.

How adding structure to your workouts may slow biological aging
By Jessica Downey published
While daily movement has benefits, scientists say structured exercise offers the strongest anti-aging effects.

Yoga instructor says this 5-minute bedtime routine will ‘soothe the nervous system and ease physical tension’ — and you don't need any equipment
By Jessica Downey published
This five-minute yoga routine from instructor Leanne Lent helps you relax into a peaceful sleep, and you don't even need to leave your bed.

This Easy Strava Trick Means I Never Miss a Run — How to Add the Strava Widget to Your iPhone Homescreen
By Jessica Downey published
I’ll show you how to add the Strava widget to your iPhone homescreen so your workouts are always visible at a glance, even when you’d rather ignore your weekly mileage. (Sorry!)

Everyone’s running in the same 3 shoe brands — and honestly, we get it
By Jessica Downey published
Strava’s mid-year report shows Asics, Nike, and Hoka leading the pack for most-logged running shoes in 2025.

I Asked a Muscle-Building Expert How to Train Your Core For Real Strength — Here’s the 5 Moves They Swear By
By Jessica Downey published
I asked a muscle-building expert to cut to the chase and share the moves he thinks build 'real' core strength. Here are the five ab-busting moves he swears by.

Brooks Running Shoes and Apparel Is Up to 57% Off at Amazon — Here Are 9 Unmissable Deals I Won’t Let You Miss Out On
By Jessica Downey published
Amazon or handing out soem seriously good Brooks running sneaker and apparel deals right now — here are the deals I don't want you to miss!

Run Faster for Less — The Adidas Adizero Boston 12 Is 26% Off at Amazon
By Jessica Downey published
You can save $42 on the adidas Adizero Boston 12 running shoe at Amazon right now. This lightweight, energy-packed trainer is built for eating up miles, and it’s just $118 in the sale.

A muscle building expert shares 3 simple tips to keep building muscle after 40
By Jessica Downey published
According to a muscle-building expert, these are the 3 tips you need to build and maintain strength after 40.

Forget sit-ups — a personal trainer shares 5 bodyweight moves you need to build a stronger core
By Jessica Downey published
A trainer's 5-move recipe for a stronger core

I asked a trainer how to stay strong after 40 — they answered with a 7-move dumbbell workout
By Jessica Downey published
Trainer Kirra Mitlo shares a simple 7-move dumbbell routine to help you build strength and stay strong at any stage of life.

Sleep Better Tonight: Scientists Reveal the 30-Minute Workout That's a Game-Changer!
By Jessica Downey last updated
Researchers say just two short sessions of yoga a week could be the key to better sleep.

Unlock Mobility: Try This Quick 15-Minute Yoga Flow to Ease Stiffness and Tension
By Jessica Downey last updated
Designed by a yoga coach, this quick routine unlocks tight muscles and leaves you moving more freely — all in just 15 minutes.

This simple walking change could help reduce your knee pain — here’s what the science says
By Jessica Downey published
Do you struggle with knee pain? Scientists say a small stride adjustment may bring relief.

How 9 minutes of daily HIIT may improve kids’ brain function and learning, according to research
By Jessica Downey published
Researchers say nine minutes of exercise may be enough to boost children’s mood and cognitive skills.

I sit at a desk all day, and this is the 1 kettlebell exercise I swear by to boost my upper body mobility and build shoulder strength
By Jessica Downey published
A PT recommended this move to me years ago and it’s been my go-to for easing stiffness and improving shoulder mobility

Just 30 minutes of resistance training can support cancer recovery — here's what the science says
By Jessica Downey published
Research from Edith Cowan University found that a single 30-minute workout may boost anti-cancer proteins and help reduce cancer cell growth in survivors.

I wear these Sweaty Betty running shorts so much I need a pair for every day of the week — luckily they’re 53% off right now
By Jessica Downey published
This deal is too good to gatekeep

Here's how to beat burnout — study finds the ideal amount of daily exercise to boost your mood
By Jessica Downey published
Research suggests mixing light and vigorous exercise could be your burnout shield. Here's the exact amount the scientists suggest doing.

Here are 7 ways I get the most out of my Garmin watch when training for a race
By Jessica Downey published
My go-to Garmin tools for staying on track and hitting race-day goals.

I do this 5-minute desk exercise every day to stop back pain, tone my abs and improve posture
By Jessica Downey published
I’ve been using this quick chair exercise at work to tone my abs and improve spinal mobility. Here’s how to do it yourself.

Forget running — I added power walking intervals to my walks and now I’m hooked
By Jessica Downey published
Here's how you can sprinkle some power walking into your routine and feel the benefits.

New study finds virtual reality may help people cope with pain — here's what the scientists found
By Jessica Downey published
New research suggests that immersive VR nature scenes may reduce pain sensitivity by activating the brain’s natural pain-relieving pathways.
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